ALEXANDRITE ENGAGEMENT RINGS

Alexandrite is actually a variety of chrysoberyl.  It has a hardness of 8.5, and excellent toughness.  It has no cleavage (the tendency to fracture when hit).  It is resistant to chemicals, heat and light, so it is a very stable gemstone.  It is usually not treated or enhanced, although it can have inclusions, and sometimes fracture-filling.  Be sure to purchase your special gem from a member of the AGTA, who is voluntarily bound by contract to disclose all treatments on gemstones (such as Krikawa).

This unique gemstone was discovered in 1830 in Russia.  Having the colors of the Russian Empire, red and green, Alexandrite was named after Czar Alexander II on his coming of age.

The original source of alexandrite was in the Ural Mountains of Russia, and that mine is now long closed, as it contained only a small pocket of fine gems.  Other small pockets have been found Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, and Brazil.  Unfortunately, gems from these mines exhibit poor to only moderate color change. A more recent find in Brazil has produced a fair sized yeild of fine color change gemstones, making this gorgeous stone again available to the interested collector.

Even with the opening of this mine in Brazil, fine gem quality alexandrite remains extremely rare and expensive.  Many fine alexandrites can be found in period jewelry, however there are new loose fine gemstones available.

Because of the great hardness of alexandrite at an 8.5, it is considered very good for every day wear.  Interested in an alexandrite for your engagement ring?  Contact us today for your special stone, or search our database of Alexandrites to see a small sampling of what's available.